Breaking News: Exercise Program Shown to Improve Colon Cancer Survival Rates

A groundbreaking study has revealed that a three-year exercise program can significantly improve survival rates in colon cancer patients and reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. The international experiment, which involved over 889 patients, demonstrates the profound impact of physical activity on cancer outcomes.

A New Standard of Care?

Experts are hailing the study as a game-changer, suggesting that exercise coaching should become a standard part of cancer care. “It’s an extremely exciting study,” says Dr. Jeffrey Meyerhardt of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. “It’s the first randomized controlled trial to show a reduction in cancer recurrences and improved survival linked to exercise.” With the benefits rivaling some cancer medications, insurance plans and cancer centers may soon consider making exercise coaching a standard part of treatment.

How the Study Worked

The study, conducted in Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, Israel, and the United States, compared two groups of patients with treatable colon cancer who had completed chemotherapy. Half of the participants received an educational booklet, while the other half worked with a coach to develop a personalized exercise plan. The coaching program, which lasted for three years, included regular meetings with a coach to set goals, track progress, and provide support.

The Results: A 28% Reduction in Cancer Recurrence

The results are nothing short of astonishing. After eight years, the group that participated in the exercise program showed a 28% reduction in cancer recurrence and a 37% reduction in deaths from any cause. While there were some muscle strains and other minor injuries reported in the exercise group, the benefits far outweighed the risks.

What Does This Mean for Patients?

So, what can patients take away from this study? For starters, it’s clear that exercise is a powerful tool in the fight against cancer. By incorporating physical activity into their daily routine, patients can reduce their risk of cancer recurrence and improve their overall survival rates. As Dr. Julie Gralow, chief medical officer of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, notes, “This is about as high a quality of evidence as you can get.”

The Power of Exercise: More Than Just Physical Benefits

But the benefits of exercise extend far beyond the physical realm. For patients like Terri Swain-Collins, who participated in the study, exercise became a source of empowerment and motivation. “This is something I could do for myself to make me feel better,” she says. With the support of her coach, Swain-Collins was able to stay motivated and accountable, even when the going got tough.

The Future of Cancer Care: Exercise as a Key Component

As the medical community continues to grapple with the complexities of cancer treatment, one thing is clear: exercise is no longer just a nicety, but a necessity. As Dr. Kerry Courneya, a co-author of the study, notes, “Now we can say definitively that exercise causes improvements in survival.” With this new evidence, cancer patients have a powerful reason to stay motivated and engaged in their treatment.

Getting Started: How to Incorporate Exercise into Your Cancer Journey

So, how can patients get started with exercise? Here are a few tips:

• Talk to your doctor: Before beginning any new exercise program, be sure to consult with your healthcare team.
• Find an exercise buddy: Having a friend or family member to support and motivate you can make all the difference.
• Start small: Begin with short, manageable sessions and gradually increase the intensity and duration.
• Make it fun: Choose activities that you enjoy, whether it’s walking, running, swimming, or dancing.

Conclusion

The study’s findings are a testament to the human body’s incredible ability to heal and adapt. As we continue to navigate the complex landscape of cancer treatment, one thing is clear: exercise is a powerful ally in the fight against this disease. By incorporating physical activity into our daily routine, we can reduce our risk of cancer recurrence, improve our overall health, and increase our chances of survival. So, let’s get moving – our bodies, and our health, will thank us.

Content originally published by health.economictimes.indiatimes.com